Commissioners: Changes needed at Manatee Animal Services

Bradenton, Florida -- Manatee County's Administrator Ed Hunzeker updated commissioners on animal services' efforts to becoming a No-Kill Shelter saying its Save Rate this year is at 94% -- up from 56% in 2011.

But some critics of animal services say the pressure to be a No-Kill shelter may be in part why animal services gave 286 animals to Napier's Horse and Animal Sanctuary between 2010 and November of 2013. Hillsborough Animal Services ended its relationship with Napier in 2009 for inadequate conditions.

Last month, Manatee deputies removed more than 300 animals from Napier for neglect and poor living conditions. Sheriff's officials say Alan and Sheree Napier may face charges of animal abuse and fraud.

Last week, the Napier's relinquished custody of the animals to the sheriff's office, except for two horses that belong to the couple's daughter.

The Manatee County Clerk's Office is conducting an independent audit on all of animal services' operations.

"I think we do need to see what we've done well and maybe what we haven't done so well. We might have to change some of the rules we abide by for these animals, my heart goes out," saidManatee County Commissioner Vanessa Baugh.

Commissioner Carol Whitmore said since the Napier raid, she and some employees at animal services have received threats and some have quit.

Hunzeker said there is no timeline for when the independent audit will be completed.